Sheila McQueen

Who is Sheila McQueen? Sheila McQueen is not one, but two. Sisters Genevieve and Jessica. A single name represents their united approach in creating and developing a unique sound. How did they get started? Being children of the 80s, Genevieve and Jessica grew up against a backdrop of artists such as Madonna, Prince, The Human League, and Talking Heads. They were lucky enough to go to a school where music was prioritised. They did all the "serious" stuff like classical piano, flute, and singing lessons and put this to good use when performing classic albums with their school band, such as The Wall by Pink Floyd, Graceland by Paul Simon, and Abbey Road by The Beatles. The school's version of "We Don't Need No Education" was even performed live on The Big Breakfast!

Both girls became more disciplined in their approach to music but realised the limitations of a classical education. Genevieve went to Middlesex University to study jazz, and she was now listening to artists such as Chet Baker, Joni Mitchell, and Sarah Vaughan.

During this time, they both continued to write and perform in London venues such as The Hope and Anchor, The Spice of Life and The Purple Turtle. They also made it to the final of UK Unsigned in the singer/songwriter category, held at the Hackney Empire. Then, by chance, whilst performing at a Notting Hill club on an open-mic night, Genevieve and Jessica were spotted by Paul Conroy, and with his guidance, they started to really develop and perfect their musical style. They have spent 18 months continuously writing and rehearsing with a band to establish their unique sound.

After an intense period of work, they have developed an 80s-influenced, synthpop style with haunting vocals and quirky dark harmonies. Sheila McQueen teamed up with music producers Kevin Bacon and Jonathan Quarmby who have helped them to establish their vision. Although the production is complex, it is fundamental to their sound.